23.12.2007
By Sunil C.Perera in Colombo
The
local meteorologist say rainy weather will continue over
the next few days.
They
forecast rain in the Northern, North-central, Eastern,
Uva, Southern and Central provinces. The public is cautioned
regarding landslides that could occur in several areas
of the Galle district. The number of displaced due to
heavy showers experienced over several days is around
ten thousand families.
Director
of the National Disaster Management Centre M.D. Hettiarachchi
says fifty houses have been completely destroyed. He said
around 500 other are partially damaged by rain related
incidents.
Assistance
continues to be provided to those affected by rain. Mr.
Hettiarachchi said a new government circular has increased
financial allocations for disasters such as the present
condition.
Transportation
has been hindered along the Moneragala-Colombo road as
the Galwala junction in Kumbukgala is inundated by heavy
showers. Therefore, police request commuters to use alternative
routes.
The
Disaster Management Centre for Polonnaruwa says around
20 thousand acres of paddy fields in the Polonnaruwa district
is under water. Transportation is obstructed along several
roads including the Manampitiya, Medirigiriya and Somawathiya
roads.
The
number of displaced families in the district is around
five thousand. A special train service from Manampitiya
to Kaduruwela is operating to assist victims. A bus service
also operated from Manampitiya.
Our
correspondent says boats are being used to save individuals
trapped by flood conditions.
Courtesy - Asian
Tribune